Max Hicks joined the Highlanders from the Tasman Mako in 2022, a promising young lock/loose forward who has also represented New Zealand as an AFL player in 2018. 

Prior to moving south, as a North Shore boy, Max was selected in U18's and U20's Blue's teams. The move to Nelson saw him selected in the Tasman Mako in 2021 where he debuted in round 3 against Northland. He has since gone on to make 16 appearances for the northern-most South Island NPC team. 

Max made his Super Rugby Pacific debut against Moana Pasifika in round 8 and proceeded to play another 6 games for the Highlanders in 2022. He will be hoping to build on those appearances and a strong 2022 NPC season to make a play for a starting spot in 2023.